Tips to Select the best Doctor for the Treatment of Arthritis

Selecting an arthritis doctor is one of the most crucial decisions you will make to keep the muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and joints healthy. You rely on the expertise and knowledge of your doctor in managing a disease that is not only complex but also changes with time and is impossible to cure for life. So, be careful about the doctor in whom you place your trust. In that regard, here are a few tips that will help you select the best doctor for your treatment.

Research the credentials of the doctor

The arthritis doctors are usually dual-board certified in rheumatology and internal medicine. You will have to consider their board certification. It tells you whether the doctor has the necessary experience, skills, and training to offer healthcare for arthritis patients. Moreover, confirm that the doctor has no prior history of disciplinary actions or malpractice claims. You will be able to find the doctor’s disciplinary record, malpractice claims if any, certifications, training, and more through online search.

Consider the experience of the arthritis doctor

Experience matters when you are facing changing and complex rheumatic conditions. The greater the experience of a doctor with your condition, the better is your treatment results. So, you can ask about the experience of the doctor with regards to arthritis treatment. If you are planning to undergo any related procedure, ask the doctor about the procedures he/she has performed and find out the complication rates. An experienced doctor will help you set the right expectations for your treatment.

Evaluate the style of communication used

Select a doctor with whom you can comfortably discuss your health problems and who understands your need for information. During your first meeting with the doctor, ask the questions you need to and notice how they respond. Is he/she welcoming the questions and answering them in a way that you understand? Did the session feel engaging or was there too much of a rush?

For your arthritis treatment, you need a doctor who is interested in understanding your pain and problems, who will consider the treatment preferences you have, and respect your decisions regarding your health.

Enquire about the telehealth capabilities

Healthcare providers can diagnose and treat patients through telecommunication technology, such as email, smartphones, or video calling. This new approach to healthcare is called telehealth. You can ask the doctor whether telehealth facilities are available or not.

Of course, telehealth isn’t a replacement for in-person visits, but it can mean fewer trips to the hospital or clinic by the arthritis patient. Keep in mind that arthritis does make it difficult for the patients to move and walk. Besides, routine follow-ups can easily be completed through telehealth, which makes it a rather convenient option for the patients.

Endnote

And that’s all! You now have the handy tips to go ahead and start looking for an arthritis doctor for your treatment. So, begin your search right away.